Sixty-Nine Arrested for Gun Ban Violations in Negros Island

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – A total of sixty-nine individuals in Negros Island were apprehended for violating the election-related gun ban, which was enforced from January 12 to June 11, 2025. The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office documented 41 arrests, while the Bacolod City Police Office reported 15 and the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office accounted for 13 violators. Police Captain Judesses Catalogo, spokesperson for the Negros Occidental Police, stated that 44 incidents related to the gun ban were recorded, leading to the confiscation of 47 firearms over the six-month period. Catalogo attributed these operations to a concerted effort to address previous shooting incidents linked to loose firearms in the region. "These arrests are the result of our intensified police operations against loose firearms," Catalogo emphasized, highlighting the proactive measures taken to ensure public safety during the election period.

According to Police Lieutenant Stephen Polinar, spokesperson for the Negros Oriental Police, 12 firearms were seized during 13 police operations, including checkpoints. Polinar noted that the number of violators reported in Negros Oriental was comparatively lower than in the other regions, suggesting that their strategic measures to mitigate gun ban violations are yielding positive results. He remarked, "Our efforts have resulted in a minimal number of violations, demonstrating effective law enforcement."

The gun ban, which is customary during elections in the Philippines, aims to maintain peace and order and prevent violence associated with electoral processes. This initiative is supported by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), which mandates the temporary prohibition of firearms in the lead-up to elections to ensure a secure environment for voters and candidates alike. The apprehended individuals face charges for their violations, and law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to uphold the gun ban.

This robust enforcement of the gun ban reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public safety and reducing crime in the region. Police officials assert that continued vigilance and community cooperation are essential in further reducing the presence of illegal firearms and preventing violence in future electoral events. As the election period progresses, law enforcement agencies are expected to maintain these intensified operations to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process in Negros Island and beyond.